OVERVIEW:
What is Mycoplasma pneumoniae?
It is a bacterium which is responsible for causing upper respiratory (lung) infections often referred to as atypical pneumonia. Its symptoms are mostly mild, self-limiting & nonspecific like runny nose, bronchitis (inflammation of bronchioles), & nonproductive cough (dry cough) for several weeks. M.pneumoniae is responsible for about 15% to 20% cases of community acquired pneumonia. Its infections are more prevalent in early fall & late summer.
What is Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgM lab test?
This laboratory test is used to measure IgM antibodies in blood produced in response to mycoplasma pneumoniae infection. IgM antibodies which are produced after some days of infection & stay in the body for short period during active infection, helps to determine current mycoplasma infections.
Why is Mycoplasma pneumoniae IgM lab test done?
It is done:
- To diagnose current Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection
- The infection includes several other syndromes like tracheobronchitis, pharyngitis, bullous myringitis, & pneumonia. So, it helps diagnose these conditions.
- What is meant by mycoplasma IgG positive?
It indicates that the person has had prior exposure to Mycoplasma. A single IgG test may come positive even in the absence of clinical symptoms as IgG antibodies remain high long after initial infection
- What is the method for confirming Mycoplasma pneumoniae?
Its antibody test will require a blood sample while direct detection of Mycoplasma pathogen can be done by a variety of samples.
- For how long Mycoplasma IgM stays positive?
IgM antibodies appear in serum after 7 days of onset of symptoms & peak at b/w 10 to 30 days.
- Which is the best antibiotic in case of Mycoplasma?
A macrolide antibiotic called Azithromycin is very effective against M.pneumoniae infections.
- Does Mycoplasma count as bacteria or virus?
It is a bacteria which infects various body parts like lungs, skin, or urinary tract.
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULTS:
IgM antibody ranges include:
- < or = 0.90: Negative, i.e. person does not have current mycoplasma infection. However, a single negative result doesn't rule out the infection, as test maybe done early. So, a second sample should be taken after 14 days.
- 0.91 to 1.09: Equivocal, i.e. no clear result. Repeat test again.
- > or = 1.10: Positive, i.e. Mycoplasma pneumoniae antibodies are present & there is current infection.
You get tested to detect a current Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection.
